Sentier du Haut Picard

Nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Sucy-en-Brie lies the Sentier du Haut Picard. It’s a place brimming with untold stories. Our journey begins not in the present, but in the past. Imagine the year 1628. The newly constructed church, Notre-Dame-de-Bonne-Nouvelle, stands proudly in what would later become known as Le Sentier. The Sentier du Haut Picard and the surrounding area weren’t always a hub of activity. This area started as a humble hamlet outside the city walls. During the Hundred Years’ War, a peculiar hill began to form, not of earth, but of accumulated garbage. This “hill” grew to an impressive ten meters. A windmill even crowned its summit. This unusual landmark gave the hamlet the name “Villeneuve sur Gravois,” meaning “the New City on Gravel.” The name “Sentier,” meaning “trail,” likely originated from the paths leading to this refuse hill, or perhaps from the walk around the city walls. Now, fast forward to the 17th century. The infamous Court of Miracles, a haven for beggars and thieves, thrived in this area. They mocked authority, creating their own laws and hierarchy. This “counter-society” grew to a staggering 30,000 inhabitants. Their reign ended when King Louis XIV dispatched La Reynie, the first police lieutenant of Paris, to dismantle this den of iniquity. In 1667, La Reynie besieged the Court of Miracles, threatening to hang the last twelve beggars captured. This caused a mass exodus. The Parisians, relieved by this “good news” (“bonne nouvelle”), gave the name to the nearby metro station. The Sentier du Haut Picard itself is located within the larger Sentier district of Paris. The district is known for its transformation over the centuries. From a “Court of Miracles” to a textile hub and later to a digital center nicknamed “Silicon Sentier,” the area has always been dynamic. Although the Sentier du Haut Picard doesn’t have the same level of fame as some of Paris’s grand boulevards, it embodies the spirit of transformation that characterizes the city. As you stand here, on this quiet pathway, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. The garbage hill, the Court of Miracles, the textile workshops, and the digital startups – all have contributed to the unique character of Sentier du Haut Picard.